Code of Ethics

INTERFAITH MISSION SERVICE COOPERATIVE

Adopted: August 28, 2007

Introduction

The Interfaith Mission Service (IMS) membership is comprised of religious congregations, and individuals of different faiths and traditions.  The IMS Board of Directors,  the Executive Committee, Ambassadors, staff, consultants and volunteers, all of whom are referred to in this document as Associates, are comprised of people with different views regarding social, political and religious issues.  We consider this diversity of views a strength as it affords us a broad perspective covering different sides of complex issues. Our vision and mission statements allow a stimulating environment where Associates can share and express opposing views on areas of concern.  While we do not wish to restrain presentation of the opposing views, we do expect respect and courtesy from our Associates in the expression of views, particularly when Associates are representing, or could be considered to be representing, IMS in any capacity.

Application and Guidance

This Code of Ethics and Conflict of Interest policy applies to all Board members, officers, staff, volunteers and consultants (Associates) of IMS.  When anyone associated with IMS in any of the above relationships is representing, or could be considered to be representing, IMS in a formal or an informal way, there is an expectation of a personal commitment of integrity, compassion and respect for others.  To this end, Associates of IMS are expected to abide by the following Code of Ethics and Conflict of Interest policy.

CODE OF ETHICS

The associates of IMS are expected to:

  • Treat all people with respect, courtesy and appreciation, to recognize their inherent dignity and worthiness as fellow human beings, and to refrain from using addresses that may be considered name calling or are otherwise offensive.
  • Conduct all activities with integrity and honesty.
  • Be objective and fair in all activities.
  • Always show respect for, embrace the diversity of, and declare the value of all cultures, races, religions, and peoples.
    Specifically, refrain from making statements about other faiths, races and cultures, or peoples that may be inferred to be harmful, threatening, abusive, harassing, defamatory, obscene, hateful, or otherwise objectionable.
  • Support volunteers so that they can perform at their highest level and receive personal satisfaction.  Involve volunteers at appropriate levels and phases of the decision-making process.
  • Provide a welcoming environment where respectful discussions can be held as we search for the sacred in the culture and faiths of others.

Resolution

If there are exceptions or suspected exceptions to the above Code of Ethics or Conflict of Interest code, the Associate will immediately bring such exception or suspected exception to the attention of an officer of IMS who will use his/her best efforts to resolve or bring to closure such exceptions or suspected exceptions.  If the resolution is not satisfactory, the Associate will bring the matter to the attention of the Board of Directors for final resolution.